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I’ve walked both. The Valcarlos route can also be split up into two days like the Napoleon. The first day is absolutely lovely, with a climb up into the town. The next day to Roncevalles is a tough climb, mostly continuous uphill with a brief downhill into the village. I specifically chose to do this route because the Napoleon has the 5KM downhill and I just wasn’t in the mood for it this time. I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily easier, but easier on the knees. Also, MUCH less pilgrims with the Valcarlos route, something I preferred, having already walked from Le Puy and enjoying the quiet.Has anyone here walked BOTH routes?
I have a lady in 2021 who is afraid to walk the Napoleon because of the inclines and declines.
How much different/easier is the Valcarlos route?
I have walked both routes multiple times. Do not have a favorite, but if one is looking at it in the sense of inclines and declines, the Valcarlos has less overall. It does have that steep section the last third of the way as you are going into Roncesvalles.Has anyone here walked BOTH routes?
I have a lady in 2021 who is afraid to walk the Napoleon because of the inclines and declines.
How much different/easier is the Valcarlos route?
Hi we walked both routes and if given a choice I’d walk the Napoleon. We absol loved it. Where as we did not like the Valcarlos route. We found the road very dangerous and stressful with the fear of heights and no barrier in places along the road. The mist was down and we were using torches but still the fear of the lorries coming at speed. The Napoleon was lovely if you give yourself plenty of time walk slowly and enjoy the scenery.Has anyone here walked BOTH routes?
I have a lady in 2021 who is afraid to walk the Napoleon because of the inclines and declines.
How much different/easier is the Valcarlos route?
Sorry I found it more dangerous on the stretch from valcarlos to roncesvallesI think the weather plays a significant role on how much either route is to be enjoyable.
So many speak of the dangerous road on the Valcarlos' first day. I recall it being a relatively short stretch and had no problem the two times I've walked to V.
Hi we walked both routes and if given a choice I’d walk the Napoleon. We absol loved it. Where as we did not like the Valcarlos route. We found the road very dangerous and stressful with the fear of heights and no barrier in places along the road. The mist was down and we were using torches but still the fear of the lorries coming at speed. The Napoleon was lovely if you give yourself plenty of time walk slowly and enjoy the scenery.
Agree! A very nice experience and I loved the nice big bathroom, too!Last year, in early May, I took the Valcarlos route as I had gone the Napolean Way two years before. The Valcarlos Albergue was wonderful after walking from SJPP. And, even though it was the beginning of the busy season, there were only four of us that night, myself from Canada, one lady from USA and two young ladies from France. Very, very enjoyable all round.
Has anyone here walked BOTH routes?
I have a lady in 2021 who is afraid to walk the Napoleon because of the inclines and declines.
How much different/easier is the Valcarlos route?
I have walked both routes. The major differences are:
The start of the ValCarlos route is not as steep as the Napoleon route.
Valcarlos is 11 km's from SJPdP with accommodation.
There are restaurants and a grocery store in Val Carlos if you forgot anything.
The remainder of the route is steep but not as steep as the Napoleon.
Ultreya,
Joe
And how many k from Valcarlos to Roncesvalles?
I have a client with bad knees. She doesn't want to attempt the Napoleon.
Would the Valcarlos route be any easier for her?
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